If you enter “model railroad layouts” in your Internet search engine, you may find a club layout in your area. Check them out. Most of them are glad to help out us novices and newcomers. I got a couple of names of railroaders in my small town from a model railroad hobby shop 60 miles from home. Then, I called one up and as soon as the “Jubilee Days” (local celebration of the 4th of July) is over, we’re getting together at his place to let me check out his layout and swap ideas.
Model railroading IS the world’s greatest hobby, and most of us are like one big family.
I second, third and fourth that!! [:D]
I talk to people from clubs around here. They always have good advice and ideas.